Tensions ran high as India and Pakistan faced off in Dubai, marked by a noticeable lack of cordiality between the captains and teams. Despite the intense atmosphere and strict security measures, fans filled the stadium, creating a vibrant backdrop.
Indian wrestler Aman Sehrawat, a Paris Games bronze medalist, was disqualified from the World Wrestling Championships in Zagreb for being 1.7 kg overweight. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is considering suspension for Sehrawat, who was a top medal contender.
Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticized the exclusion of Arshdeep Singh from India's team. Ashwin questioned the logic of prioritizing extra batting options over a specialist T20I bowler like Arshdeep, who boasts 99 T20I wickets. He emphasized the mental impact on bowlers consistently sidelined despite strong IPL and international performances, urging them to recognize their worth.
Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria claimed the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry has diminished due to Pakistan's declining standards. He cited the absence of key players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in the upcoming Asia Cup clash. Kaneria believed India are far superior, even without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and anticipated a one-sided contest.
Suryakumar Yadav, India's dynamic T20I batter, celebrates his birthday as India prepares for a crucial Asia Cup clash against Pakistan. Known for his innovative and explosive batting, SKY's ability to dominate bowlers and find gaps makes him a key player in high-pressure situations. His adaptability and match-winning capabilities could be decisive in the upcoming contest.
India and Pakistan are set to reignite their intense cricket rivalry in a highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 T20 Group A match in Dubai on Sunday, September 14. Following convincing wins against weaker teams, this clash promises a heightened level of competition.
Wasim Akram believes the current Indian cricket team is the best he has witnessed, highlighting their talent and mental fortitude. He praises India's management of Jasprit Bumrah and admires their bowling attack, especially Mohammed Siraj. Akram advises Pakistan to relax and enjoy the India-Pakistan game, while acknowledging Afghanistan's rise in Asia and Pakistan's need for consistency.
Naushad Moosa, after his India U-23 team narrowly missed AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualification, stayed back in Doha amidst reported bombings. Despite impressive wins against Bahrain and Brunei, and a narrow loss to Qatar, Moosa worries about the players' future. He emphasizes the need for consistent senior-level playtime to maintain their development and readiness for the national team.
Indian fans eagerly anticipate the Neeraj Chopra-Arshad Nadeem javelin throw showdown at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Gulveer Singh aims to impress in the 10,000m final, while M Sreeshankar seeks a strong comeback in the long jump. Parul Chaudhary and Annu Rani lead the women's charge, hoping to make their mark in their respective events.
India's women boxers are making waves at the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, with Pooja Rani and Jaismine Lamboria securing semifinal berths. They join Nupur Sheoran, guaranteeing India three medals. Pooja's experience and Jaismine's dominance led to their victories. However, Abhinash Jamwal's defeat in the men's quarterfinals adds a somber note, leaving Jadumani Singh Mandengbam as India's sole male contender.
Ivan Toney, after a standout debut season with Al-Ahli, claims the Saudi Pro League is on par with the Premier League. With 30 goals and two major trophies, he backs the league’s rising quality and urges respect for its talent. Despite moving abroad, Toney remains focused on England selection and aims to lead Al-Ahli to further success.
The Supreme Court refused to urgently list a PIL seeking to cancel the India vs. Pakistan cricket match scheduled for the Asia Cup in Dubai. The petition, filed by law students, cited recent political tensions and terror attacks, arguing the match would compromise national dignity.
India dominated UAE in their Asia Cup opener, securing a nine-wicket victory after Kuldeep Yadav's exceptional spin bowling dismantled the hosts for a mere 57 runs. India chased down the target swiftly in just 4.3 overs. Kuldeep Yadav's impressive figures of 4 for 7 led the bowling attack, supported by Shivam Dube's career-best 3/4.
Overall, India have been crowned Asia Cup champions a record eight times — the most by any team in the tournament’s history. The list of Indian captains who have lifted the trophy reflects the country’s cricketing pedigree: Sunil Gavaskar (1984), Dilip Vengsarkar (1988), Azharuddin (1990, 1995), Dhoni (2010, 2016), and Rohit (2018, 2023).
Cricketer Prithvi Shaw faced a token fine of Rs 100 from a Mumbai sessions court for his delayed response in a molestation case filed by social media influencer Sapna Gill. Despite multiple requests and a final warning, Shaw failed to submit his reply to Gill's petition challenging the rejection of her FIR against him.
Carlos Alcaraz clinched his second US Open title, defeating Jannik Sinner and securing a record $5 million prize. Despite the historic payout, US tax regulations will significantly reduce Alcaraz's earnings, potentially leaving him with around $2.5 million after federal and state taxes. A tax treaty with Spain offers some relief from double taxation.
Cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri will headline Sony Sports Network's commentary team for the Asia Cup T20. The tournament, featuring India, Pakistan, and others, precedes next year's T20 World Cup. Gavaskar praised Suryakumar Yadav's leadership, while Shastri highlighted the team's blend of experience and youthful talent, anticipating a strong performance in the 2025 Asia Cup.
400m hurdles star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is far from done with her pet event as she focuses on 400m flat for world championships.
MS Dhoni and R. Madhavan have ignited speculation with a teaser video showcasing them in tactical gear, hinting at a potential action project directed by Vasan Bala. Shared by Madhavan, the teaser promises a wild chase, leaving fans guessing about its nature.
India's men's compound archery team made history by clinching their first-ever gold at the World Archery Championships, defeating France. The team comprised Aman Saini, Rishabh Yadav, and Prathamesh Bhalchandra Fuge. Rishabh Yadav also secured a silver medal with Jyothi Surekha Vennam in the compound mixed team event, losing to the Netherlands in the final after a successful run.
Indian badminton faces a period of underwhelming performances, but Sankar Subramanian, a former junior World No. 1, expresses optimism about the future. Despite recent setbacks, he believes the next generation holds immense potential. Sankar emphasizes the need for improved grassroots programs, high-performance training, and comprehensive support systems to consistently compete at the highest level and regain India's dominance in badminton.
A deadly explosion struck a cricket match in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. Police confirmed the attack in Bajaur district was targeted, utilizing an IED. The incident follows recent violent encounters in the province, highlighting ongoing security challenges as forces combat militant activities.
Afghanistan clinched a narrow four-run victory against the United Arab Emirates in a thrilling T20 tri-series encounter. Despite missing key players, Afghanistan posted 170-4, powered by Ibrahim Zadran's 48 and Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 40. UAE fell short, managing 166-5, as Fareed Ahmad's composed final over secured the win for Afghanistan. Asif Khan's late surge proved insufficient against Afghanistan's disciplined bowling.
Aryna Sabalenka triumphed over Jessica Pegula, securing her spot in the US Open final, aiming for a consecutive title. She will face Amanda Anisimova, who defeated Naomi Osaka in a thrilling three-set match. Anisimova displayed resilience, overcoming Osaka's strong start to reach her second major final. The stage is set for a captivating showdown between Sabalenka and Anisimova.
Gautam Gambhir celebrated Teachers' Day by acknowledging his mentor, Sanjay Bhardwaj, with a humorous post on X, reminiscing about their enduring bond. Gambhir emphasized the importance of honesty and resilience, lessons instilled by Bhardwaj since he joined the LB Shastri Cricket Club at age 10. He credits Bhardwaj's guidance for shaping his cricket career and life.
Nick Kyrgios has confidently asserted his victory over Aryna Sabalenka in a potential "Battle of the Sexes" match slated for Hong Kong before the Australian Open. Kyrgios, currently recovering from injury, believes his serve would be insurmountable for Sabalenka. The proposed exhibition evokes memories of the historic 1973 King-Riggs match.
Veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has retired from professional cricket. His career spanned over 25 years. Recurring injuries and a desire to promote younger players led to this decision. Mishra is grateful to the BCCI, Haryana cricket association, his colleagues, and family. He also thanks his fans for their support.
All ten Indian female boxers, including Lovlina Borgohain and Nikhat Zareen, have been cleared to compete at the Women’s World Boxing Championships in Liverpool. This clearance follows successful genetic sex eligibility testing, a new requirement by World Boxing. The Indian team underwent advanced FISH-based testing at NIS Patiala, with certificates verified by WB's medical committee.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, dropped after a poor T20 World Cup 2022 showing, hasn't given up on an India comeback despite selectors overlooking his strong IPL 2025 performance with RCB. The 35-year-old pacer, currently playing in the Uttar Pradesh Premier League 2025, remains focused on fitness and performance.
European powerhouses like Spain, France, and Germany commence their World Cup qualifying campaigns, aiming for a spot in the North American tournament. While Argentina, Brazil, and several Asian teams have already qualified, Europe's 16 slots are fiercely contested. With seasoned veterans and emerging talents, these nations face a challenging path where every match holds significant weight.
European football clubs finalized major transfer deals, reshaping team rosters across various leagues. Serie A saw Kevin De Bruyne and Luka Modric move as free agents, while Real Madrid acquired Dean Huijsen. Bayern Munich signed Luis Diaz, and PSG secured Illia Zabarnyi, impacting the competitive landscape for the upcoming season.
India and Nigeria are vying to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, submitting formal bids by the August deadline. Ahmedabad is India's proposed host city for the centenary edition. A Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Commission will assess the bids, with a final decision expected at the General Assembly in Glasgow this November, following Canada's withdrawal due to budget concerns.
The 2025 Premier League transfer window witnessed a flurry of activity, with Liverpool leading the charge by acquiring Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz for record-breaking fees. Manchester City secured Gianluigi Donnarumma, while Manchester United revamped their attack under Ruben Amorim. Several other high-profile moves, including Grealish to Everton and Garnacho to Chelsea, reshaped the league's landscape.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru has launched 'RCB Cares' in response to the tragic stampede during IPL trophy celebrations, which resulted in 11 deaths. The initiative focuses on fan welfare and safety, promising structural safeguards for the future. RCB proposes a fan-safety audit framework, staff training, and collaboration with IPL and KSCA to strengthen crowd management protocols, aiming to prevent similar incidents.
Sanju Samson's explosive form in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) has intensified discussions about India's Asia Cup lineup. He has amassed 368 runs in five innings, studded with 30 sixes, making him the second-highest run-getter in the competition. His most recent outing for the side as vice captain saw him score a swift 83 in a three-wicket win.